Hostos Community College selected to receive grant to implement innovative greenhouse project

December 26, 2007

The Bronx Initiative for Energy and the Environment (BIEE), a program established by Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr., and the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC) to promote the implementation of environmental technologies and energy-saving measures, has announced that Eugenio Maria de Hostos Community College was selected to receive a grant for $60,000 to implement an innovative greenhouse project.

“We are pleased to fund the Hostos Community College Greenhouse Project, which will provide an opportunity for the local community to explore solutions to environmental problems and engage in educational activities related to environmental, health and nutrition issues,” said Kate Shackford, Director of BIEE.

The greenhouse proposal was submitted to BIEE/BOEDC by the college’s Natural Science Department. The cost estimate for the project is approximately $100,000.

“This greenhouse will provide valuable opportunities for the faculty and students of the Natural Sciences Department at Hostos to gain a better understanding of the environment and the potential value of horticulture in the South Bronx,” said Hostos President Dolores M. Fernandez. “In addition, it will be also available to members of the general public who are interested in horticultural therapy, herb gardening, and the experimental production of medicinal plants.”

As described in the proposal, the Hostos Greenhouse Project will complement ongoing research in the Natural Sciences Department, which includes the study of medicinal plants that grow wild in New York City, recognition of their economic or beneficial value, and their utility to promote awareness of environmental conservation.

Under the supervision of Professor Amanda Bernal-Carlo and Professor John Gillen, research is being conducted by several Hostos students in a Green-thumb Garden, located at the corner of 143rd Street and Willis Avenue. This small garden provides a cornerstone activity for the improvement of a South Bronx neighborhood.

The Hostos Greenhouse Project will also provide the college community and local residents with a place to learn about urban horticulture and environmental issues and to grow plants. The greenhouse will be built on the college’s A Building at 475 Grand Concourse on the corner of 149th Street.

Hostos Community College is a unique institution that has experienced a very positive transformation in recent years. With newly renovated facilities and a faculty dedicated to excellence, the college provides an intellectually rich environment with high academic standards.

Media Contact:

Nestor Montilla
Director of Public Relations

Division of Institutional Development
Eugenio Maria de Hostos Community College of The City University of New York
120 East 149th Street, Rm. 214 E Bronx, NY 10451
Tel. (718) 518-4355 Fax #: (718) 518-4240
Email: nmontilla@HOSTOS.CUNY.EDU
www.hostos.cuny.edu/news